Description of my Artwork and Materials

I lathe-turn decorative and ceremonial vessels made of wood and alabaster, ranging from 3 to 22 inches in diameter. My vessels have been sold in select art galleries in seven western states and by the Smithsonian Institution's Renwick Gallery in Washington DC. The alabaster I use is from Utah, Colorado and Italy. The woods I use are grown all over the world, especially in Hawaii.

My Background and Training

I was born in New Mexico and am a direct descendent of the Choctaw Indians. I was exposed to Apache, Navajo, Pueblo and Zuni cultures which inspired me to create turned wood and alabaster vessels from their designs, including unique pieces which combine these two materials. I began turning wood years ago, and began working with alabaster after a visit to Tuscany, Italy, where I was introduced to alabaster as an art medium. My formal technique training has been through wood-turning seminars from internationally-known turners. However, more important to the artistry of my pieces has been intensive self-study of Southwest Indian basketry and pottery, from which I have developed the shapes of my vessels.

Special Commissions and Art Shows

• Sally Ride, first female astronaut, 2004.
• Purchase of two of my wood vessels and one alabaster piece by Sam Maloof, world-renowned furniture maker, 2002.
• Special commissions for Madeline Albright, former Secretary of State; Barbara Vucanovich, former Congresswoman; Frankie Sue Del Papa, former Nevada Attorney General; and Debbie Fields, Mrs. Fields Cookies Founder by Nevada Women's Fund, 2001 - 2003.
• Collectors of Wood Art (CWA) Forum: Minneapolis, 2001 and Santa Fe, 2003.
• Annual one-man show at Silver State Gallery, Reno, 1997-2005.
• Inclusion in 2004 publication: 500 Wood Bowls by Lark Books.